New South Wales Waratahs have announced the signing of Queensland Reds back Jono Lance and Biarritz backrow Talalelei Gray for the 2014 Super Rugby season.

Lance, born in Canberra, has represented Australia at Under-20 and Sevens levels, and he won the 2011 Super Rugby title with the Reds. Gray, born in Australia, returns home having moved in 2012 to Biarritz, with whom he won the Amlin Challenge Cup. Waratahs coach Michael Cheika said the players "fit the profile of what we are looking for".

Cheika said of Gray, who moved to France having played two seasons of Shute Shield rugby for Easts: "He's the type of player we're looking for. Rugged in attack and defence, Tala is a strong ball carrier and a big worker. He also has a bit of edge, which I really like in players, and he is hungry to prove himself back in Australia."

Cheika said that Lance had a skills set and a hard edge that would make him a valuable addition to the squad. "Jono brings a dual running and ball distribution game, and he is an excellent defender," Cheika said."He has all the qualities to fit the profile of what we are looking for. Along with that, he has an excellent character and that is a very important feature in our recruitment criteria."